What is wrongful death?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies as a result of someone else’s negligence. It could be negligence in operating a motor vehicle, using a product, in a hospital or nursing home setting; or a variety of other causes as well. The deceased’s surviving relatives, dependents, or beneficiaries may bring suit against those claimed to have been responsible, and they may seek monetary damages to compensate for the losses. Each state has its own statute covering the viability of claims for wrongful death, and not every state follows the same guidelines, principles, or rules. An attorney who is experienced in investigating and handling wrongful death cases can advise you on whether you have a valid wrongful death claim and can help you pursue that claim to the best possible outcome.
In legalese, if someone dies because of the actions, negligence, or conduct of another person or a company, the family can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the parties responsible. It doesn’t matter if the death was intentional or unintentional, the fact remains that the actions or negligence of someone else caused your family member to die.
Wrongful death occurs when a person’s death was caused by the negligent, willful, or wrongful act, neglect, omission, or default of another, such as careless driving or a deliberate murder. In addition to injuring the person who died, people who depended upon the deceased for financial or emotional support may be entitled to compensation for the wrongful death. The State of Florida has enacted a statute permitting a lawsuit to be brought by the relatives of a person who died as a result of a wrongful act.
Wrongful death is a legal term of art. In the context of a personal injury or medical malpractice lawsuit, a wrongful death is a death caused by a wrongful or negligent act. A wrongful death can form the basis of a civil action against the person or persons responsible for the death. A wrongful death action is different than a negligence action because it is brought by the victim’s survivors for economic damages, such as lost income, as well as for loss of guidance and support stemming from the loss of the victim. To determine whether you have an action for the wrongful death of a loved one, contact us.
